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Trump comment sparks controversy at Winter Olympics
U.S. women's ice hockey captain Hilary Knight has criticized a remark by President Donald Trump as a "distasteful joke" that diverted attention from female athletes' achievements at the Milan-Cortina Winter Games.
Gold medal sweep for Team USA
The United States secured historic victories in both men's and women's ice hockey at this month's Olympics, marking the first time the country claimed gold in both categories at the same Games.
Trump's call and the fallout
Following the men's team's win, Trump congratulated the players in a phone call, extending an invitation to his State of the Union address. During the conversation, he quipped that he would also need to invite the women's team or risk impeachment. The women's team later declined the invitation to Tuesday's speech in Washington, D.C.
"It was sort of a distasteful joke, and unfortunately that is overshadowing a lot of the success, the success of just women at the Olympics carrying for Team USA and having amazing gold medal feats."
Hilary Knight, five-time Olympic medallist
Reactions and reflections
The men's team faced backlash after some players appeared to laugh at Trump's comment. Knight, however, suggested the moment was a "quick lapse" and emphasized the mutual respect and support between the teams.
"I think there's a genuine level of support there and respect. That's being overshadowed by a quick lapse," she told ESPN. "The guys were in a tough spot, so I think it's a shame this storyline and narrative has kind of blown up and [is] overshadowing that connection and genuine interest in one another."
Knight's legacy and message
At 36, Knight concluded her Olympic career with a record 15 goals, the most by any U.S. ice hockey player, male or female. She expressed hope that the controversy would serve as a learning opportunity.
"Women aren't less than, and their achievements shouldn't be overshadowed by anything else other than how great they are."
Hilary Knight
Knight emphasized the need to focus on how women are discussed, not just in sports but across all industries.
Historic victory for women's team
The U.S. women's team clinched gold with a dramatic comeback win over Canada, further cementing their place in Olympic history.
